Heather du Plessis-Allan & Barry Soper stick with ZB

AUCKLAND, Today: Newstalk ZB husband-and-wife duo Heather du Plessis-Allan and Barry Soper have confirmed their future plans at the network, following the birth of their son Iggy in February.

From Tuesday 26 April, du Plessis-Allan will return as host of the Drive show, whilst Soper will take eight weeks of parental leave before returning part time to the press gallery.

During this time, Newstalk ZB will appoint an acting political editor to the role.

“A fantastic outcome.”

In 2023 du Plessis-Allan and Soper will be based in Auckland from which time Soper will step into the newly created role as Newstalk ZB’s senior political correspondent.

NZME chief radio officer Jason Winstanley says the network is pleased to be supporting the couple during this time and he’s excited about their future plans with NZME.

NZME ceo Michael Boggs said: “Barry is a loyal, committed, respected stalwart of New Zealand broadcasting and to be able to have him in Auckland, whilst Heather will continue to grow her audience in her ever-popular Heather du Plessis Allan Drive show.

“A fantastic outcome.”